Your child may have tests to find out if your child has latent tuberculosis (TB). Children with latent TB have the TB bacteria in their bodies. But they don't have any symptoms of TB. The tests may include the tuberculin skin test or the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) blood test.
Why are these tests done?
If your child has been in close contact with someone who has TB, your child could be infected. Tests help your doctor find a latent (inactive) TB infection. Then your child can get treatment if needed. This can prevent latent TB from becoming active TB disease that can spread to other people.
How do you prepare for the test?
If the doctor suggests a TB skin test for your child, tell the doctor if your child has had the BCG vaccine. It interferes with skin test results. If your child has a blood test, they do not need to do anything before having this test.
How are these tests done?
Your child may get the tuberculin skin test or the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) blood test. The skin test is often used in children younger than 5 years old.
During the skin test, part of a TB bacterium is injected under your child's skin. The test feels like a quick needle poke.
For the blood test, a health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm. It is then tested in a lab.
What happens after the test?
If your child had a TB skin test, they must see the doctor again 2 to 3 days after the test to have the skin test checked. If your child has TB in their body, a firm red bump will form at the shot site within 2 days.
If your child had a blood test done, they can go back to their usual activities right away.
The doctor may want to repeat the skin or blood test again in several weeks.
If the tests show that your child is infected with TB, the doctor may order more tests. These may include checking the mucus in your child's lungs or taking an X-ray. They can help the doctor find out if your child has active TB disease that can spread to other people.
The test results will help the doctor decide on any treatment.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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